# 9 Best Free Inventory Management Software 2026 | Capterra

> Learn about and compare the 9 best free Inventory Management software in 2026. Understand the pros and cons and cost of each tool to narrow your choices.

Source: https://www.capterra.com/inventory-management-software/s/free

---

# Best Free Inventory Management Software in 2025

Last updated on September 15, 2025

Written by [Molly Burke](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/mburke/)

Writer

Edited by [Caroline Rousseau](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/caroline-rousseau/)

Editor

Small businesses operating on tight budgets need affordable ways to track and organize inventory. Free inventory management software offers automation that saves time, effort, and costs. Available as either [forever free](https://www.capterra.com/inventory-management-software/?pricing_options=FREE_VERSION) or [free trial versions](https://www.capterra.com/inventory-management-software/?pricing_options=FREE_TRIAL), these tools provide basic features for monitoring stock levels, managing orders, and forecasting demand. 

We analyzed over 17,000 verified user reviews from the past two years and 632 products with either a free plan or free trial to identify the most important features, benefits, and limitations of free solutions.[\[1\]](#footnotes)

## 9 best free or free trial inventory management software

[

NetSuite

](#6a680041-f372-46f3-a3e9-a6d200b556c0)

Highly rated for Purchase Order Management

4.2 (1991)

[

Zoho Inventory

](#eadad135-7b1d-4166-9007-a6d200b7a22f)

Highly rated for Ease of Use

4.5 (414)

[

SKU IQ

](#d0a990d2-f355-49fb-9670-a75800a95f37)

Highly rated for Inventory Control

4.7 (173)

[

UpKeep

](#eb689565-b6bf-4bdf-8229-a6d200b73cad)

Highly rated for Maintenance Management

4.6 (1320)

[

Odoo

](#49a68156-7e55-465d-bce6-a816004f00fd)

Highly rated for Functionality

4.2 (1291)

[

Veeqo

](#ba543a45-593d-4f28-9584-a6d200b74ee2)

Highly rated for Value for Money

4.2 (87)

[

Sortly

](#5265d66a-0219-49e7-b573-a82400584160)

Highest rated

4.5 (951)

[

Square for Retail

](#613412bf-166a-4876-865a-5ae6302876c1)

Highly rated for Customer Support

4.7 (492)

[

EZO

](#d2ac22ad-1a9a-4fb0-94bd-a6d200b3ea7f)

Highly rated for Inventory Tracking

4.6 (1543)

[Explore our full Inventory Management solutions](https://www.capterra.com/inventory-management-software/)

## How we picked the software on this list

All the tools listed below are featured in the [2024 Capterra Shortlist for Inventory Management](https://www.capterra.com/inventory-management-software/shortlist/). To qualify, each tool offers either a forever free plan or free trial, at least 20 user reviews in the past two years as of December 2024, and an overall rating of 4 and above. Preference is given to products that are always free over those simply offering a free trial.

Our analysis of thousands of user reviews highlights key insights about user experiences with these platforms, offering valuable feedback on functionality, ease of use, customer support, and value for money.

* * *

[### Sortly](https://www.capterra.com/p/169199/Sortly-Pro/)

[4.5 (951)](https://www.capterra.com/p/169199/Sortly-Pro/reviews/)

Highest rated

Highest rated

[View Profile](https://www.capterra.com/p/169199/Sortly-Pro/)

Starting Price:

$49.00

Flat Rate,

Per Month

Free Trial

Free Version

Top rated feature:

Inventory Control

Based on 489 reviews

User rating:

KR

64% of reviewers rated it 5 stars

Based on our analysis of verified user reviews, Sortly emerges as the best inventory management tool with a free plan overall. Businesses of all sizes could appreciate Sortly for its asset tracking and organization capabilities. With features such as customizable fields, folders, and subfolders, Sortly empowers users to stay on top of their inventory the easy way. This tool enables quick item identification through barcode and QR scanning, all while providing real-time tracking updates. Sortly also offers mobile accessibility with apps for both Android and iOS for inventory management. Reviewers say that with its built-in reporting and analytics, users can keep a close eye on stock levels and trends.

Features

Features reviewers most value

**Asset tracking**

Reviewers give this feature a rating of 4.2 out of 5. They appreciate Sortly's asset tracking capabilities for keeping tabs on important and expensive tools. They report it helps track equipment, consumables, and IT devices, knowing their locations and maintenance needs. Users indicate it supports product stewardship across distributors and reduces lost equipment. They find it useful for generating PDFs for invoicing and managing federal funding requirements. Reviewers also mention the ease of setup and the ability to add barcodes for better tracking.

**Inventory management**

Reviewers give this feature a 4 out of 5 rating. They report Sortly's inventory management is essential for tracking stock levels, ensuring adequate supply, and preventing stockouts. They highlight its customization options, mobile accessibility, and barcode integration. Reviewers appreciate the ability to manage inventory for various business types, from retail to nonprofits. They mention the importance of low item alerts and the ability to create folders for projects or employees. Some users indicate a need for better reporting features and integration with other systems like Xero.

**Inventory tracking**

Reviewers rate this feature 4 out of 5. They indicate Sortly's inventory tracking is vital for job costing and tracking materials used in projects. They appreciate the ability to track equipment and consumables, knowing their locations and usage. Users find the search feature and folder options helpful for organizing inventory. They mention the importance of tracking inventory movements and the ability to generate reports. Some users note the need for improved search functionality and better reporting options for inventory history.

Pros & Cons

RB

Rosie B.

Furniture, 1-10 employees

Used the software for: 6-12 months

"Great experience, fantastic cataloguing option for my home staging business, I havent been able to find anything else as user friendly or simple to see my inventory on hand and set up folders for homes where my staging is located, to easily move inventory from one to the other."

GU

Garrett U.

Building Materials, 11-50 employees

Used the software for: 2+ years

"Sortly was exactly what we needed to transform our business form guessing and manually counting material to being able to track all out supply with very little effort. Once we're able to get new people trained, we've been able to track our supply with minimal"

SM

Sirena M.

Architecture & Planning, 11-50 employees

Used the software for: 1-2 years

"I don't use it as inventory for sales, but as a library for all of the architectural samples we have in our office. Since the price increase, the cost doesn't make sense, and we will migrate to another app."

DB

Dinta B.

Construction, 1-10 employees

Used the software for: Less than 6 months

"One limitation we've noticed is that Sortly doesn't currently support having two different price fields for a single item (e.g., purchase price and resale price)."

Pricing

Sortly’s free forever plan is designed for personal use and offers basic features such as inventory lists and custom folders and tags, for 100 unique terms. The Advanced package is available for 2 user licenses at $24 per month when billed annually and includes 2,000 unique items, and unlimited QR code label creation. At $74 per month, Ultra includes 5 user licenses and advanced features like third-party scanner support, alerts, and reporting capabilities.

[Learn more about Sortly pricing plans](https://www.capterra.com/p/169199/Sortly-Pro/pricing/)

Integrations

**Popular Integrations**

-   **Slack** is a messaging and collaboration application that connects with Sortly to provide teams with real-time notifications on inventory levels and unfolding changes.
    
-   **Microsoft Teams** is a messaging and collaboration app that integrates with Sortly to enable direct sharing of inventory levels within the user's workspace.
    
-   **QuickBooks Online** is an accounting tool that integrates with Sortly to help SMBs sync inventory data directly with their accounting system–a prerequisite for simple financial reporting and tracking.
    

[Learn more about Sortly](https://www.capterra.com/p/169199/Sortly-Pro/)

* * *

[### Veeqo](https://www.capterra.com/p/150907/Veeqo/)

[4.2 (87)](https://www.capterra.com/p/150907/Veeqo/reviews/)

Highly rated for Value for Money

Highly rated for Value for Money

[View Profile](https://www.capterra.com/p/150907/Veeqo/)

Starting Price:

$0.00

Flat Rate,

Per Month

Free Trial

Free Version

Top rated feature:

eCommerce Management

Based on 7 reviews

User rating:

AC

61% of reviewers rated it 5 stars

Natively built as an all-in-one inventory management software, Veeqo is an inventory tracking tool as much as it is an order processing and shipping management platform. E-commerce businesses will appreciate how this tool integrates with sales channels—including but not limited to Shopify, eBay, and Amazon. This level of integration ensures real-time stock synchronization while helping keep manual entry errors at bay once and for all. Beyond that, Veeqo has an intuitive interface, always-on customer support, and mobile apps for inventory control. According to our verified user reviews, Veeqo has the best value for money among the top inventory management tools with a free plan.

Features

Features reviewers most value

**e-commerce management**

Reviewers appreciate Veeqo's e-commerce management capabilities, rating them 5 out of 5. They highlight the integration with platforms like Amazon, eBay, Etsy, and Shopify, which ensures seamless stock quantity matching and automatic order exports. Users report that Veeqo consolidates orders, stock, shipping templates, invoices, and custom forms in one place, saving significant time. They find it essential for businesses selling on multiple marketplaces, and they value Veeqo's alignment with the broader e-commerce ecosystem.

**Shipping label**

Reviewers indicate that Veeqo's shipping label capabilities are highly valuable, giving them a 4.6 out of 5 feature rating. They appreciate the ability to print multi-channel shipping labels simultaneously, which saves time. Users report discounted rates for USPS labels and the convenience of direct printing to label printers. They also like the selection of paper size options and the efficient process Veeqo provides. However, some users wish for more customization options and the ability to print product pictures on packing slips.

**Parcel shipping**

Reviewers rate this feature 4.6 out of 5. They find Veeqo's parcel shipping capabilities helpful for handling multi-channel shipments. They appreciate the integration with preferred shipping partners like USPS, UPS, FedEx, and DHL, which reduces data-entry errors and potential delivery issues. Users report good shipping rates and intuitive, fast label buying and printing. They also value the ability to compare their company's rates with Veeqo's rates. However, some users desire the ability to ship through all their channels with Veeqo.

Pros & Cons

js

jennifer s.

Retail, Self-employed

Used the software for: 1-2 years

"It is a great software that integrates into the Amazon selling system in which you can easily manage all orders with Veeqo."

feras r.

Logistics and Supply Chain, 11-50 employees

Used the software for: 6-12 months

"It is very convenient to track the inventory of various products in all of the company’s warehouses and electronic stores."

MM

Mica M.

Arts and Crafts, 1-10 employees

Used the software for: 6-12 months

"Apparently the ticket has been escalated to the development team It's been 4 weeks and still no resolution."

sw

simon w.

Sporting Goods, 11-50 employees

Used the software for: 6-12 months

"Amazon will NOT protect your account for labels bought via Veeqo."

Pricing

Veeqo offers a free-forever plan that allows users to access all of the tool’s inventory and shipping features and reporting capabilities. For an upgrade, users can opt for the Priority package, starting at $250/month, with the standout feature being a dedicated account manager.

[Learn more about Veeqo pricing plans](https://www.capterra.com/p/150907/Veeqo/pricing/)

Integrations

**Popular Integrations**

-   **QuickBooks Onlin**e is an accounting tool that integrates with Veeqo to help users sync financial data and inventory to have a stronger grip on stock-level management and order tracking. 
-   **Shopify** is an e-commerce platform that integrates with Veeqo to automatically update stock levels across all of a user’s sales channels.
    
-   **Xero** is a cloud-based accounting tool that integrates with Veeqo’s capabilities to help bring clarity out of invoicing, accounting, and stock updates.
    

[Learn more about Veeqo](https://www.capterra.com/p/150907/Veeqo/)

* * *

[4.5 (414)](https://www.capterra.com/p/146241/Zoho-Inventory/reviews/)

Highly rated for Ease of Use

Highly rated for Ease of Use

Starting Price:

$39.00

Flat Rate,

Per Month

Free Trial

Free Version

Top rated feature:

Inventory Control

Based on 29 reviews

User rating:

CT

57% of reviewers rated it 5 stars

Zoho Inventory ranks as the best tool with a free trial for ease of use in its category. Reviewers say that this tool has a range of built-in features—from low stock alerts to serial tracking to FIFO stock valuation—to help make stock and operations management error-free for SMBs. Combined, Zoho Inventory’s vast customization options and endless integrations ensure users never have to scratch their heads when dealing with invoicing, order processing, and inventory updates.

Features

Features reviewers most value

**Inventory control**

Reviewers appreciate Zoho Inventory's inventory control capabilities; they give the feature a rating of 5 out of 5. They find it easy to track day-to-day stock and sales and make amendments quickly. Users report that organizing current inventory and correcting stock levels is straightforward. They say it ensures correct stock levels across all platforms, both in-store and online. They find it reliable and important for maintaining accurate inventory. However, some users mention it can be a bit complex in certain departments.

**Order management**

Reviewers give this feature a rating of 4.3 out of 5. They indicate Zoho Inventory's order management capabilities are efficient and easy to maintain. They report that inventory automatically adjusts after an order is received or an invoice is generated. Users find it straightforward to manage customer orders and track progress, especially for online orders. They appreciate the integration with other Zoho software. However, some users experienced issues connecting the software to their store despite multiple attempts.

**Inventory management**

Users report Zoho Inventory's inventory management capabilities are simple and easy to use, giving them a 4 out of 5 feature rating. They appreciate the ability to log products with details like cost price, selling price, and SKU ID. Reviewers find it reliable for forecasting future orders and tracking stock levels. They highlight the ease of use on mobile devices and the system's strong core functionality. However, some users feel the free trial lacks automation features available in the paid version.

Pros & Cons

CT

Clara T.

Telecommunications, 11-50 employees

Used the software for: 2+ years

"I like the tight integration of Zoho Inventory with the accounting software I use, allowing me to keep my stock and financial records synced up."

JL

Janne L.

Leisure, Travel & Tourism, 10,001+ employees

Used the software for: 1-2 years

"It greatly improved management because you can have a more organized process that also makes it easier to keep track of detailed transactions without losing information."

LG

Leonard G.

Hospital & Health Care, 51-200 employees

Used the software for: 1-2 years

"Bugs issues sometimes which may finds annoying"

LG

Leonard G.

Hospital & Health Care, 51-200 employees

Used the software for: 1-2 years

"Poor security system."

Pricing

Zoho Inventory comes with a 14-day free trial for SMB leaders to assess whether it fits their inventory management needs. Composite items, reorder levels, customer portal, and basic inventory management capabilities are all available in the Standard plan, going for $29 per organization per month when billed annually. An upgrade to the Professional tier, at $79 per organization per month, unlocks even more features, including vendor portal, batch tracking, and serial number tracking.

[Learn more about Zoho Inventory pricing plans](https://www.capterra.com/p/146241/Zoho-Inventory/pricing/)

Integrations

**Popular Integrations**

-   **PayPal** is a multi-currency payment processor that integrates with Zoho Inventory to help ensure orders and stock are automatically updated when transactions occur.
    
-   **Slack** is a messaging and collaboration application that integrates with Zoho Inventory so users can receive updates and alerts directly within Slack channels.
    
-   **Google Workspace** is a cloud-based productivity suite that integrates with Zoho Inventory’s capabilities by allowing teams to track inventory data and generate reports across apps.
    

[Learn more about Zoho Inventory](https://www.capterra.com/p/146241/Zoho-Inventory/)

* * *

[### Square for Retail](https://www.capterra.com/p/170272/Square-for-Retail/)

[4.7 (492)](https://www.capterra.com/p/170272/Square-for-Retail/reviews/)

Highly rated for Customer Support

Highly rated for Customer Support

[View Profile](https://www.capterra.com/p/170272/Square-for-Retail/)

Starting Price:

$0.00

Flat Rate,

Per Month

Free Trial

Free Version

Top rated feature:

Multi-Location

Based on 6 reviews

User rating:

CM

75% of reviewers rated it 5 stars

Square for Retail stands out as the best inventory management tool with a free plan in terms of customer support. Reviewers say that this tool facilitates everything from credit and debit card transactions to point-of-sale operations and inventory. It offers features such as invoicing, sales reporting, and customizable receipts, and its customer service is deemed a good fit for SMBs. The initial setup is quick and straightforward, platform integrations are easy and abundant, and there’s a readily available knowledge base and 24/7 support.

Features

Features reviewers most value

**Payment processing**

Reviewers appreciate Square for Retail's payment processing capabilities, giving them a 4.4 out of 5 feature rating. They report that transactions are accurate and easy to make, even when using someone else's device. Users highlight the quick and seamless processing, which is crucial for maintaining cash flow in startup businesses. They find the system secure, with receipts sent after purchase and note that payments are processed quickly without delays. Reviewers also mention the flexibility of using Square for Retail anywhere and in multiple ways, making it a valuable tool for their businesses.

Pros & Cons

AR

Anthony R.

Design, Self-employed

Used the software for: 2+ years

"The system is straightforward, fast to learn, and reliable for day‑to‑day retail operations."

AC

Alisa C.

Retail, 1-10 employees

Used the software for: 1-2 years

"I have complete control over each transaction and can run any sales or promotions that I want!"

AS

Amy S.

Construction, 1-10 employees

Used the software for: Less than 6 months

"I operated in good faith, with no chargebacks or history of fraud, and now my ability to serve customers and pay employees is compromised."

Amie O.

Events Services, 51-200 employees

Used the software for: 2+ years

"We had a transient business and the sales tax programming was a bit cumbersome, having to change them weekly to where we were selling."

Pricing

Square for Retail offers a free forever plan, complete with unlimited users and transactions. An upgrade opportunity comes in the shape of the Plus package, at $89 per location per month and includes QR code ordering and detailed analytics.

[Learn more about Square for Retail pricing plans](https://www.capterra.com/p/170272/Square-for-Retail/pricing/)

Integrations

**Popular Integrations**

-   **QuickBooks Online** is an accounting software that integrates with Square for Retail to simplify financial reporting and inventory reconciliation for users.
    
-   **Instagram** is a social sharing platform that integrates with Square for Retail to allow users to manage sales directly through their Instagram store, all while synchronizing inventory.
    
-   **Square Point of Sale** is a point-of-sale application that natively integrates with Square for Retail to provide unified transaction and inventory management across online and in-person sales ecosystems.
    

[Learn more about Square for Retail](https://www.capterra.com/p/170272/Square-for-Retail/)

* * *

[### Odoo](https://www.capterra.com/p/135618/Odoo/)

[4.2 (1291)](https://www.capterra.com/p/135618/Odoo/reviews/)

Highly rated for Functionality

Highly rated for Functionality

[View Profile](https://www.capterra.com/p/135618/Odoo/)

Starting Price:

$31.10

Per User,

Per Month

Free Trial

Free Version

Top rated feature:

Purchase Order Management

Based on 29 reviews

User rating:

NS

53% of reviewers rated it 5 stars

According to our analysis of verified user reviews, Odoo is the best inventory management tool with a free plan in terms of functionality. It’s primarily an open source ERP solution with features such as sales, CRM, and project management, but is also an inventory management tool. Within Odoo, small businesses can track stock in real time, manage multi-department inventories, and automate key processes like reordering and stock transfers—all from one interface. The tool also allows users to customize it to their unique needs.

Features

Features reviewers most value

**Billing and invoicing**

Reviewers appreciate Odoo's billing and invoicing capabilities for their ease of use and efficiency; they give the feature a 3.6 out of 5 rating. They highlight the ability to handle multiple currencies, partial payments, and automated reminders, which improve cash flow and reduce administrative tasks. Users report that automated invoicing reduces manual work and ensures timely billing. They find the customizable invoices and e-invoicing functionality valuable for professional client communication. However, some reviewers mention challenges with specific accounting systems and integrations with other tools like Stripe.

**Inventory management**

Reviewers give this feature a rating of 3.4 out of 5. They report that Odoo's inventory management is effective for tracking inventory, managing stock levels, and forecasting quantities. They appreciate the ability to handle complex setups, including multiple warehouses and locations. Reviewers indicate that the system provides valuable insights into product movements and profitability. They find it easy to use and integrate with databases, although some mention difficulties with small quantities and transfers between warehouses. Users also note that it struggles with very large inventories and has some terminology issues.

Pros & Cons

Yatra P.

Retail, 10,001+ employees

Used the software for: Less than 6 months

"Many features like customization, tasks tracking, multiple integration and automation are available which saves a lot of time."

RP

Ryan P.

Design, 1-10 employees

Used the software for: Less than 6 months

"Instead of piecing together multiple tools, Odoo integrates key business functions in one system which can simplify workflows and reduce tool sprawl."

hd

hana d.

Retail, 11-50 employees

Used the software for: 6-12 months

"My Odoo database — which I paid for and which should have been created under my company’s ownership — was created and controlled entirely under ADG’s ( odoo authorised partner) internal account. Because of this, ADG was able to delete my database and remove my access without any authorization."

hd

hana d.

Retail, 11-50 employees

Used the software for: 6-12 months

"No one should be in this situation waking up to see that the fully paid subscription account with database and pos completly deleted without prior notice and althoug im the admin of the odoo shop account. But what i didnt know that the odoo partner i signed with have scamed me and created my odoo shop under there company accouny which is a clear data ownership Violation."

Pricing

Small businesses that are just starting can count on Odoo’s free-forever plan. It offers features for one app (or one website published with them), an unlimited number of users, and access to most base features—so users could use Odoo just for inventory management for free. A leap to the Standard plan, available at $24.90 per user per month, opens the door to all Odoo modules apps.

[Learn more about Odoo pricing plans](https://www.capterra.com/p/135618/Odoo/pricing/)

Integrations

**Popular Integrations**

-   **Google Docs** is a web-based editing tool that integrates with Odoo so teams can generate inventory reports and collaborate in real time.
    
-   **Paypal** is a multi-currency payment processor that integrates with Odoo to bring transactions and inventory updates on the same page, ensuring new orders directly reflect on stock levels.
    
-   **Gmail** is a free email service from Google that integrates with Odoo to help teams communicate directly from Odoo facilitating faster order confirmations.
    

[Learn more about Odoo](https://www.capterra.com/p/135618/Odoo/)

* * *

[4.7 (173)](https://www.capterra.com/p/186941/Sku-IQ/reviews/)

Highly rated for Inventory Control

Highly rated for Inventory Control

Starting Price:

$35.00

Usage Based,

Per Month

Free Trial

Free Version

Top rated feature:

Inventory Control

Based on 40 reviews

User rating:

SR

84% of reviewers rated it 5 stars

Among the most popular inventory management software with a free version, SKU IQ stands out as a top solution for inventory syncing. Reviewers consistently cite the tool’s real-time stock tracking and automatic quantity adjustments as advantages for helping prevent overselling and maintain accurate inventory across multiple channels. Plus, users can leverage the tool’s ability to connect with leading e-commerce and point of sale (POS) platforms, making inventory management easier. Users also appreciate its simple interface that displays synced sales, inventory, and customer data.

Features

Features reviewers most value

**Order management**

Reviewers appreciate SKU IQ's order management capabilities, giving them a rating of 4.4 out of 5. Users report that it seamlessly syncs orders from platforms like Shopify, Wix, and Square, making daily processing easier. They find it helpful to have all orders, whether online or in-store, in one place. They say it tracks sales and performance efficiently and syncs new products to their Wix space with ease. Users indicate that orders are sent near-instantly to their Clover account, keeping their inventory fresh and organized.

**Inventory management**

Reviewers highlight SKU IQ's inventory management capabilities; they rate this feature 4.3 out of 5. They report that it syncs inventory in real time between brick-and-mortar stores and e-commerce platforms like Shopify and TikTok Shop. Users appreciate the time saved by updating one inventory instead of multiple. They find the dashboard simple and easy to navigate, making inventory management straightforward. Reviewers indicate that SKU IQ notifies them of low product levels and keeps their customers happy by preventing overselling. They say it integrates well with platforms like Squarespace and Clover.

Pros & Cons

SR

Sergio R.

Sporting Goods, 11-50 employees

Used the software for: Less than 6 months

"Going further, SKU IQ can create products across both systems, so we can save time and focus on managing the product information in one system."

MM

Miguel M.

Events Services, 11-50 employees

Used the software for: Less than 6 months

"This is great for syncing your Wix inventory with Square POS and Square for Retail, the Product search & Multi Sync features are good and the Sync Events list is handy too."

AF

Amanda F.

Automotive, 1-10 employees

Used the software for: Less than 6 months

"I am waiting now for 4 weeks to have an issue resolved which prohibits the basic functionality of the program, to connect square and squarespace, and no matter how many times i tried to follow up with the company, i got nothing until i went ahead and booked myself in for a 'demo'."

MU

Megan U.

Retail, 1-10 employees

Used the software for: 6-12 months

"Some issues setting up - still unsure how to show that an order is being fulfilled by shopify from TT shop."

Pricing

Solo sellers can use the free plan to connect their TikTok and Shopify accounts, with 10 orders included per month. SKU IQ also offers a 14-day free trial of its paid version for users to test drive it without commitment but with full access to its core features. Once the trial ends, they can switch to plans starting from $45 per month for 100 orders per month and basic inventory management features.

Integrations

**Popular Integrations**

-   **PayPal** is a multi-currency payment processor that integrates with SKU IQ to update inventory and sales data in real time.
    
-   **Wix** is an e-commerce website builder that connects with SKU IQ to help users automatically update product listings and inventory in real time.
    
-   **Stripe** is a payment gateway that integrates with SKU IQ to help users simplify transactions and automatically update inventory with each sale.
    

[Learn more about SKU IQ](https://www.capterra.com/p/186941/Sku-IQ/)

* * *

[### EZO](https://www.capterra.com/p/124047/EZOfficeInventory/)

[4.6 (1543)](https://www.capterra.com/p/124047/EZOfficeInventory/reviews/)

Highly rated for Inventory Tracking

Highly rated for Inventory Tracking

[View Profile](https://www.capterra.com/p/124047/EZOfficeInventory/)

Starting Price:

$65.00

Other,

Per Month

Free Trial

Free Version

Top rated feature:

Inventory Control

Based on 118 reviews

User rating:

HN

65% of reviewers rated it 5 stars

EZOfficeInventory is the top-rated inventory management too with a free trial for its inventory-tracking features. SMB owners can scan barcodes, QR codes, and RFID tags to keep tabs on their inventory in real time and manage their assets efficiently. Plus, its customizable low-stock alerts and detailed asset history logs help prevent losses and surprising stock outs.

Features

Features reviewers most value

**Asset tracking**

Reviewers appreciate EZOfficeInventory's robust asset tracking capabilities, rating them 4.6 out of 5. They report it simplifies keeping track of inventory and checked-out items, especially for remote workers and large campuses. Users indicate it helps hold employees accountable for assets and provides a historical record of asset usage. They find it easy to see who has what, where items are located, and when they need to be returned. Reviewers feel it is essential for managing expensive equipment and ensuring compliance.

**Inventory tracking**

Reviewers give this feature a rating of 4.6 out of 5. They report that EZOfficeInventory's inventory tracking capabilities significantly improve operational efficiency. They find it helpful to track inventory across multiple locations and see who checked items in or out. Reviewers appreciate the ease of knowing current inventory levels and the ability to reorder products when stock is low. They indicate the user interface is approachable and supports multiple users accessing the inventory, making it easier to manage and maintain.

**Inventory management**

Reviewers highlight EZOfficeInventory's inventory management capabilities as valuable for tracking and managing stock levels, giving the feature a 4.3 out of 5 rating. They report it helps maintain accurate records of office inventory, including automated email updates and real-time tracking. Users appreciate the ability to manage inventory across multiple locations and generate comprehensive reports. They find it easy to add, edit, and check out items, which is especially useful for managing equipment in educational and corporate settings.

Pros & Cons

RP

Raavi P.

Computer Software, 10,001+ employees

Used the software for: 1-2 years

"Over all I had very good experience using EZOffice inventory where I can allocate assets to new users as well as able track the inventory in warehouse so that’s based on info I can take necessary actions and at the time of I audit I can show the report very smooth"

SJ

Samantha J.

Construction, 1-10 employees

Used the software for: 2+ years

"I love the different options and versatility for each product type you can really keep track of everything from expenses to quantities, it keeps things super efficient in our business!"

ap

abdiel p.

Architecture & Planning, 51-200 employees

Used the software for: I used a free trial

"The downside of working in multiple locations, is that if you have spotty connection the product productivity fades along with it, but the mobile app helps with that."

HD

Hala D.

Automotive, 51-200 employees

Used the software for: 2+ years

"If the Asset number or AkzoNobel code is not accessible, it is more difficult to find the product on EZOffice, also when I'm looking for an active product that we have at our facility, everything is showing up including retired items."

Pricing

EZOfficeInventory offers a 15-day free trial, giving SMB owners the chance to explore the platform's full inventory tracking features. From $35 per month, billed annually, the Essential plan allows users to manage up to 250 items and get access to basic features for moderate inventory needs. At $45 per month, the Advanced plan offers more features such as scheduled services, purchase orders, and custom fields.

[Learn more about EZO pricing plans](https://www.capterra.com/p/124047/EZOfficeInventory/pricing/)

Integrations

**Popular Integrations**

-   **Dropbox Business** is a cloud-based file storage and collaboration tool that integrates with EZOfficeInventory so users can store and access inventory and asset data from a central location.
    
-   **OneDrive** is a cloud-based file storage and sharing solution that connects with EZOfficeInventory to help users access important inventory documents.
    
-   **Zendesk Suite** is a customer service platform that tracks customer support tickets and related inventory issues when integrated with EZOfficeInventory.
    

[Learn more about EZO](https://www.capterra.com/p/124047/EZOfficeInventory/)

* * *

[### UpKeep](https://www.capterra.com/p/145635/UpKeep/)

[4.6 (1320)](https://www.capterra.com/p/145635/UpKeep/reviews/)

Highly rated for Maintenance Management

Highly rated for Maintenance Management

[View Profile](https://www.capterra.com/p/145635/UpKeep/)

Starting Price:

$20.00

Per User,

Per Month

Free Trial

Free Version

Top rated feature:

Inventory Control

Based on 12 reviews

User rating:

JB

68% of reviewers rated it 5 stars

UpKeep is rated as the best inventory tool with a free trial for maintenance management. Reviewers highlight its ability to reduce downtime through mobile access and customizable maintenance workflows. Small business owners in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, hospitality, and facilities management use features like work order management, preventive maintenance scheduling, asset tracking, and real-time reporting.

Features

Features reviewers most value

**Form creation**

Reviewers give this feature a 5 out of 5 rating. They appreciate UpKeep's user-friendly interface and ease of use. Many reviewers highlight the software's ability to streamline processes and improve communication, which is crucial when creating forms. However, some users have noted issues with customization and the need for more flexibility in certain features. 

**Product identification**

Reviewers give this feature a rating of 5 out of 5. They appreciate the software's ability to track and manage assets effectively, which is a critical component of product identification. The integration of mobile applications and ease of access are also highlighted as strengths. However, some users have experienced challenges with the software's inventory management capabilities, such as difficulties in uploading items and the need for more robust reporting features. 

**Work order creation**

Users frequently commend UpKeep for its ability to streamline work order processes, making it easier to create, assign, and track tasks; they rate this feature 4.7 out of 5. The mobile app is particularly praised for its convenience and real-time updates, which enhance the efficiency of managing work orders. However, some users have mentioned occasional technical issues, such as glitches and slow performance, which can hinder the work order creation process.

Pros & Cons

BR

Brandon R.

Hospitality, 11-50 employees

Used the software for: I used a free trial

"While UpKeep has a relatively slow UI and occasional bugs, I think it facilitates easy creation, assignment, and tracking of work orders in real time very well."

Clark J.

Machinery, 11-50 employees

Used the software for: 6-12 months

"It's alright, mobile app was nice for my technicians, and I was able to track the reporting on my work orders for my team"

Terry Y.

Consumer Services, 1-10 employees

Used the software for: 6-12 months

"I feel like all maintenance asking always use more interface updates along with overhaul updates more regularly especially for upkeep. Though all the stuff I listed that makes it seem like the user is in full control you're still the lack of being able to do your own reporting which is probably the main issue no poor times I'll just being able to see your job orders it's the little things that are like nothing could be fixed if you actually ask and implemented their most DieHard customers responses and problems."

MS

Mehran S.

Information Technology and Services, 501-1,000 employees

Used the software for: 6-12 months

"It has a learning curve and takes some time to get used to as there are many different options which can easily be messed up with one another."

Pricing

Small business owners can test UpKeep with a 14-day free trial and get a real-world feel of what maintenance tools it has to offer. When the fortnight is over, they can choose the Lite plan, priced at $20 per user per month which covers all essential features like asset management and recurring work orders, or the Starter plan at $45 per user per month for additional features such as preventive maintenance optimization and time tracking.

[Learn more about UpKeep pricing plans](https://www.capterra.com/p/145635/UpKeep/pricing/)

Integrations

**Popular Integrations**

-   **Slack** is a messaging and collaboration application that integrates with UpKeep to help users send maintenance alerts, work order updates, and asset status changes directly to other team members. 
-   **Microsoft Excel** is a spreadsheet tool that integrates with UpKeep to export maintenance data so users can analyze trends and generate custom reports.
    
-   **Microsoft Teams** is also a collaboration platform that connects with UpKeep to simplify communication and task management for maintenance teams.
    

[Learn more about UpKeep](https://www.capterra.com/p/145635/UpKeep/)

* * *

[4.2 (1991)](https://www.capterra.com/p/135757/NetSuite/reviews/)

Highly rated for Purchase Order Management

Highly rated for Purchase Order Management

Starting Price:

Not provided by vendor

Free Trial

Free Version

Top rated feature:

Inventory Control

Based on 81 reviews

User rating:

PS

46% of reviewers rated it 5 stars

NetSuite ranks as the best inventory management tool with a free trial for purchase order management. Businesses praise its cloud-based ERP features that simplify procurement workflows, automate purchase orders, and connect easily with vendor management systems. Its real-time visibility capabilities allow SMB owners to manage their ordering processes and reduce errors. Plus, it supports inventory tracking from purchase orders to delivery, improving inventory levels and supplier relationships.

Features

Features reviewers most value

**Financial reporting**

Reviewers appreciate NetSuite's financial reporting capabilities, rating them 4.2 out of 5. They highlight the comprehensive, real-time insights it provides into a business's financial health. Users report that the customizable reports are easy to understand and offer intuitive visuals. They find the integration with other NetSuite modules valuable for quick data analysis. They also mention the flexibility in designing reports, although some elaborate customizations require effort. Users indicate that real-time reports facilitate timely decision-making and accurate financial audits, making it a helpful tool for financial management.

**Inventory management**

Reviewers give this feature a rating of 4.1 out of 5. They report that NetSuite's inventory management capabilities provide a unified view of inventory, helping optimize levels and reduce stockouts. They appreciate the real-time updates and detailed item records, which include multiple pricing structures and warehouse locations. Reviewers indicate that the system streamlines operations, improves accuracy, and aids in informed decision-making. They find the ability to track and manage inventory crucial for meeting customer demands. Some users mention that the system is customizable and simplifies inventory adjustments, making it reliable for various business needs.

**Contact database**

Reviewers highlight NetSuite's contact database as comprehensive and user-friendly; they rate the feature 3.9 out of 5. They appreciate the ability to store, organize, and access contact information easily. Users report that it allows tracking of all communication history, including emails, calls, and notes, which helps maintain customer relationships. They find the customization options, such as custom fields and easy import/export of contacts, valuable. However, some users note limitations with contacts across multiple subsidiaries. Overall, they indicate that the Contact Database is robust and simplifies customer relationship management.

Pros & Cons

MM

Michael M.

Architecture & Planning, 51-200 employees

Used the software for: 2+ years

"It allows me to tailor solutions to specific business needs, streamline workflows, and build scalable systems that truly support operational efficiency."

SY

Sadanandarao Y.

Retail, 201-500 employees

Used the software for: 2+ years

"Furthermore, the ability to create custom records and fields without complex database management ensures the system scales effortlessly with evolving business requirements."

PS

Paul Fabian S.

Retail, 51-200 employees

Used the software for: I used a free trial

"This limitation reduces efficiency in space planning and order packing, requiring workarounds that add time and complexity to daily operations."

TD

Tasman D.

Automotive, 51-200 employees

Used the software for: 2+ years

"At the current time our primary issue is system performance. Although we have reviewed the scripting and workflows and upgraded to 5 processors there still seems to be delays in simple tasks"

Pricing

To explore its top purchase order management features, NetSuite offers users a free product tour so they can get a sense of features such as procurement management and reporting tools. After the free trial ends, business owners contact sales for a personalized quote. NetSuite offers custom pricing plans based on a business’s needs.

Integrations

**Popular Integrations**

-   **DocuSign** is an e-signature platform that integrates with NetSuite so business owners can approve and sign purchase orders, contracts, and other financial documents faster.
    
-   **Box** is a cloud-based file storage and collaboration tool that integrates with NetSuite to manage, securely store, and share inventory documents, such as purchase orders.
    
-   **BambooHR** is a human resources tool that integrates with NetSuite to match staffing needs with procurement and simplify inventory projects and operations.
    

[Learn more about NetSuite](https://www.capterra.com/p/135757/NetSuite/)

* * *

## Top free inventory management software at a glance

Vendor

Highly rated

Starting Price

[NetSuite](https://www.capterra.com/p/135757/NetSuite/)[4.2 (1991)](https://www.capterra.com/p/135757/NetSuite/reviews/)

Purchase Order Management

Not provided by vendor

[Zoho Inventory](https://www.capterra.com/p/146241/Zoho-Inventory/)[4.5 (414)](https://www.capterra.com/p/146241/Zoho-Inventory/reviews/)

Ease of Use

$39.00

Per Month

[SKU IQ](https://www.capterra.com/p/186941/Sku-IQ/)[4.7 (173)](https://www.capterra.com/p/186941/Sku-IQ/reviews/)

Inventory Control

$35.00

Per Month

[UpKeep](https://www.capterra.com/p/145635/UpKeep/)[4.6 (1320)](https://www.capterra.com/p/145635/UpKeep/reviews/)

Maintenance Management

$20.00

Per Month

[Learn More](https://www.capterra.com/p/145635/UpKeep/)

[Odoo](https://www.capterra.com/p/135618/Odoo/) [4.2 (1291)](https://www.capterra.com/p/135618/Odoo/reviews/)

Functionality

$31.10

Per Month

[Learn More](https://www.capterra.com/p/135618/Odoo/)

[Veeqo](https://www.capterra.com/p/150907/Veeqo/)[4.2 (87)](https://www.capterra.com/p/150907/Veeqo/reviews/)

Value for Money

$0.00

Per Month

[Learn More](https://www.capterra.com/p/150907/Veeqo/)

[Sortly](https://www.capterra.com/p/169199/Sortly-Pro/)[4.5 (951)](https://www.capterra.com/p/169199/Sortly-Pro/reviews/)

Highest rated

$49.00

Per Month

[Learn More](https://www.capterra.com/p/169199/Sortly-Pro/)

[Square for Retail](https://www.capterra.com/p/170272/Square-for-Retail/)[4.7 (492)](https://www.capterra.com/p/170272/Square-for-Retail/reviews/)

Customer Support

$0.00

Per Month

[Learn More](https://www.capterra.com/p/170272/Square-for-Retail/)

[EZO](https://www.capterra.com/p/124047/EZOfficeInventory/)[4.6 (1543)](https://www.capterra.com/p/124047/EZOfficeInventory/reviews/)

Inventory Tracking

$65.00

Per Month

[Learn More](https://www.capterra.com/p/124047/EZOfficeInventory/)

Explore our 852 Inventory Management solutions[Browse Directory](https://www.capterra.com/inventory-management-software/)

## Our methodology

Our independent and objective research is based on market demand signals along with analysis of our proprietary data, including product information and verified user ratings and reviews as of December 2024.

To be considered for this list, products had to:

-   Appear in the Capterra Shortlist for [2024 Capterra Shortlist for Inventory Management](https://www.capterra.com/inventory-management-software/shortlist/).
    
-   Show evidence of offering required functionality for a given software category as demonstrated by publicly available sources, such as the vendor’s website.
    
-   Offer either a forever free version or a free trial period.
    
-   In certain cases, depending on the market, we may expand the criteria for selection of products based on our market insights to ensure we’re providing the best options for buyers. 

We took the highest-rated products in each of the listed parameters a product is “best for” unless that product already appeared on our list. In these cases, we feature the next highest-rated product. 

In our descriptions of each featured product, we include the following details: 

**Most valued features:** Our research team analyzed verified inventory management software reviews on Capterra to identify each product’s highest-rated features (among features with at least five reviews). We then summarized user sentiment using real reviews for each feature. Please note some of the highest-rated features for a given product may not be included in its free version. 

**Review excerpts selection**: Review excerpts are passages extracted from longer reviews written by verified reviewers. We obtain these excerpts by applying an algorithm that considers factors including, but not limited to, length, sentiment, topic coverage, and thematic relevance. Excerpts represent user opinion and do not represent the views of, nor constitute, an endorsement by Capterra or its affiliates. Excerpts are not edited for clarity or grammar.

**Popular integrations:** We identified integrations from our internal database and selected products considered as “most popular” based on how often they were cited by users as integrating with products in the category.

## What is inventory management software?

[Inventory management software](https://www.capterra.com/inventory-management-software/) lets businesses monitor stock levels across various channels in real time, allowing them to quickly see their current inventory and make informed reordering decisions based on customer demand forecasts. Users often integrate inventory management software with tools used for managing both physical and online stores, like [e-commerce platforms](https://www.capterra.com/ecommerce-software/), [CRM systems](https://www.capterra.com/customer-relationship-management-software/), and [point of sale (POS) software](https://www.capterra.com/point-of-sale-software/).

Users can get instant updates on stock levels, dive into sales data to gauge demand, create and manage purchase orders for new inventory, scan in new stock, and keep their product catalogs organized. Plus, these tools usually offer mobile access, so users can check stock levels anytime, anywhere.

## What is free inventory management software?

Inventory management software typically offers two “free” options: a forever free version and a free trial version. Some providers offer both—a basic free version for getting started and a free trial of their full-featured system.

### Forever-free options (free version with limited features)

Forever-free options offer access to very basic features of inventory management software at no cost, without a time limit. These tools do tend to be limited in the amount of features, user seats, data storage, customization, and data analytics they offer. 

For example, a free inventory management tool may come with core features like inventory tracking, inventory optimization, and product identification, but not reporting and analytics, real-time alerts, or an advanced search/filter feature. Additionally, a free tool may not offer enough storage for you to track your entire product catalog as you expand your offerings, and if your team grows, you may need more user seats than the free version allows. 

Forever-free inventory management tools are best for small businesses who are just getting started with inventory management or have a very small amount of inventory and want to keep costs low. Among the 200 vendors listed on our site with forever-free versions, you’ll find several options for free inventory management software that meet your needs.  

### Free trial options (time-limited free access)

Free trial versions of inventory management software typically provide full access to all features of a product for free, but only for two to four weeks. This allows potential buyers to test the software, including advanced features they may need as they grow. Once the free trial ends, users have to purchase a paid plan in order to continue using the tool. 

Free trials are best for businesses who want to invest in a paid solution but want to explore the features and functionality of different tools to find the right fit. There are nearly 600 vendors on our site that offer free trials, so you can find the one that’s right for your business.  

## Features included with free inventory management software

All inventory management systems come with features for tracking the amount and movement of stock, balancing stock to meet customer service and revenue goals, and identifying products with barcodes or serial numbers. 

Here are the features that usually come with free inventory management software, plus some that are usually not included in free packages, along with our analysis of user feedback about which functionalities matter most to businesses. 

### Core features available in free inventory management software

-   **Inventory tracking:** Monitor the movement and quantities of inventory items. 95% of reviewers rate this feature as critical or highly important. 
-   **Product identification:** Ability to link barcodes or serial numbers with specific items for identification. 80% rate this feature as critical or highly important.
    
-   **Inventory optimization:** Balance and streamline inventory stock to meet customer service and revenue goals. 

### Common features of free inventory management software

-   **Inventory control:** Monitor product stock levels. 94% of reviewers rate this feature as critical or highly important.
    
-   **Reporting/analytics:** View and track pertinent metrics. 89% rate this feature as critical or highly important.
    
-   **Purchase order management:** Create, send, and track purchase orders and their statuses. 83% rate this feature as critical or highly important.
    
-   **Order management:** Organize, track, monitor, and execute customer orders for goods, investments, or any other purchases. 74% rate this feature as critical or highly important.
    
-   **Mobile access:** Access the software remotely via mobile devices. 72% rate this feature as critical or highly important.
    
-   **Barcode/ticket scanning:** The ability to scan barcodes to ensure accurate pricing and label tracking. 71% rate this feature as critical or highly important.
    
-   **Third-party Integrations:** Set up connections to third-party platforms to improve business processes. 64% rate this feature as critical or highly important.
    
-   **Real-time alerts:** Alerts or notifications of various types such as pop-up messages, sounds, banners, or badges. 

### Features and functionalities not typically included in free inventory management software

The following features and capabilities are typically only included in paid software packages: 

-   **Advanced inventory management features:** Kitting, bundling, and batch tracking. 
-   **Other warehouse-related features:** Maintenance, manufacturing, and use of handheld scanners.
    
-   **Sales, marketing, and finance features:** e-commerce management, CRM, point of sale (POS), customer portal, email marketing, accounting, and shipping management.
    
-   **Support for growth:** Adding multiple channels, data storage, physical locations, and user seats.
    
-   **Advanced customizations:** Custom product data fields, dashboards and reports, and QR code generation.
    

## Benefits of using free inventory management software

Our software advisors speak with thousands of small businesses each year, and from those conversations, it’s clear that using manual methods of tracking inventory—or using no formal method at all—is inefficient and unreliable, resulting in costly errors and too much time spent on data entry. In fact, nearly half (48%) of businesses we spoke to cite efficiency as a pain point with inventory management.[\[2\]](#footnotes) 

Inventory management software automates inventory tracking, forecasting, and product identification, so businesses can understand their inventory needs and make data-driven decisions while saving time and other resources. Our analysis of verified user reviews reveals some benefits you can expect from free versions of this software:

-   **Automates routine tasks:** Users say inventory management software automates tasks, saving them time and preventing human-made calculation errors. 
-   **Keeps you up-to-date on stock levels:** With real-time alerts and notifications, users say this software provides timely visibility into stock levels, preventing stockouts that could harm the customer experience. 
-   **Supports business growth:** While free tools themselves may not provide the capacity to support businesses through significant growth phases (you’ll typically want the data storage and user seats of a paid subscription at that point), they can help small businesses introduce automation that puts them on a path to growth. When users upgrade from manual methods of inventory management to a dedicated software tool, they see increased efficiency and savings and have a better understanding of how product is flowing, allowing them to intelligently reinvest resources into their business. 

## What to look for in free inventory management software

Don’t settle for an inventory management tool that doesn’t meet your needs just because it’s free. You should still take the time to figure out if the tool is going to help you. Look for these key considerations when making your selection. 

### Hidden costs and fees

You may encounter unforeseen costs when implementing your free inventory management tool, particularly when it comes to increasing data storage. Free tools tend to offer limited data storage, customizations, and integrations, with payment required to increase the amount of stock you can track with the software and in what level of customized detail, as well as what systems you can integrate it with. This is important to keep in mind if you plan to grow your business in the future, or if you currently have a large product catalog, complex integration needs, or multiple channels and physical locations.  

### Limited features

Many free tools offer access to enough features to support your small business’s inventory management needs. However, some free solutions restrict access to essential features, leaving other key features like reporting and integrations behind a paywall. This can limit the free version’s effectiveness if you need those paid features. 

### User reviews

Some tools come with issues that you won’t learn about from the vendor. Reading verified user reviews is a great way to uncover the hidden benefits and challenges of a given tool. Keep an eye out for reviews that mention issues like load speeds, limited customizations, hidden costs, and a lack of vendor support. You can check Capterra’s database of [200 free inventory management products](https://www.capterra.com/inventory-management-software/?pricing_options=FREE_VERSION) for reviews from real users.

## How to choose free inventory management software

It takes a bit of due diligence to make sure you choose a free inventory management tool that meets your needs. Here’s what to keep in mind as you narrow your options. 

### 1\. Know your must-have features

Free inventory management tools tend to offer limited features and functionality, which means some tools may not be able to fully support your business’s inventory operations. Take a look at the list of key features above and identify which of those your business will definitely need, and don’t settle for a tool that falls short of those requirements just because it’s free. 

### 2\. Consider your growth plans 

Consider how much data storage and customization you’ll need now and into a future growth phase. It’s a good idea to choose a tool for which you can envision upgrading to a paid subscription, so you don’t have to spend time and money switching to a new product if you outgrow the free version. 

### 3\. Create a focused shortlist

As you conduct your product research, narrow your options to no more than three vendors to engage with further through product demos and free trials. Use those interactions to get a first-hand look at how the tool can work for your business. To get started, use [Capterra Shortlist for Inventory Management](https://www.capterra.com/inventory-management-software/shortlist/) or our [software comparison tool](https://www.capterra.com/resources/capterra-software-comparison-tool/). 

## Common limitations of using free inventory management software

Free inventory management software typically comes with limitations around features and functionality. Here are a few to consider as you research your options:  

-   Data storage limits, such as the number of SKUs, transactions, records, and locations the tool will track 
-   Limited user seats, which impacts the number of employees that can access the tool
    
-   Access is limited to essential features, which may not be sufficient for your business’s unique needs
    

One of the biggest issues users experience with free versions of inventory management software is limited customization for product information and dashboards. Without the ability to customize how you categorize and track inventory, you may find it harder to locate products in your system. A lack of customization is not just an issue with free inventory management systems, however; because businesses have unique methods of tracking their inventory, even paid tools can present challenges in terms of customization. That’s why it’s so important to allow end users at your business to test tools out prior to adoption.

## When to consider free vs. paid inventory management software

Free inventory management software can offer huge advantages to small businesses that need to upgrade from manual methods. However, the limitations that come with free versions of these tools may leave you feeling underwhelmed, especially if you’re heading into a growth phase. 

You should consider using a paid version of an inventory management tool if you:

-   Manage a high volume of SKUs
    
-   Operate multiple locations and require many user seats
    
-   Need a high level of customization
    
-   Have complex integration needs
    

If this sounds like you, you should consider either starting with a paid plan or upgrading from a free plan to a paid plan in the near future. 

## What is the cost to upgrade from free inventory management software to a paid package?

Paid inventory management software for small businesses is typically priced either on a “per user, per month” basis or at a flat monthly rate. Subscription pricing increases for advanced features and functionality.[\[3\]](#footnotes)

-   Entry-level subscription plans range from $18 to $49 per user, per month, or as a flat rate between $92 to $209. These basic plans offer standard features like inventory tracking, inventory optimization, and product identification. 
-   Mid-tier plans average $54 to $85 per user, per month, or a flat rate range of $315 to $649. These plans include added features like order management, reporting and analytics, and multi-channel management. 
-   High-end enterprise-level plans average $113 to $150 per user per month, or a flat rate ranging from $1038 to $2250 per month for advanced features and customization. 

Our research shows that 61% of inventory management software buyers budget less than $200 per month for their new software.[\[2\]](#footnotes)

## FAQs

What is the best free inventory management software?

According to our analysis of free products with high market demand and reviews from Capterra Shortlist, [Sortly](https://www.capterra.com/p/169199/Sortly-Pro/) has the highest overall rating from verified reviewers.

Which software is recommended for doing inventory management?

Inventory management software is recommended for tracking inventory, forecasting demand, and inventory-related analytics. This software category has tools specific to industries, such as retail, warehousing, and manufacturing. Some inventory management tools come with advanced features designed to support financial, e-commerce, and supplier management workflows in addition to inventory management.

How can I keep track of my inventory for free?

You can keep track of your inventory for free using a [free inventory management tool](https://www.capterra.com/inventory-management-software/?pricing_options=FREE_VERSION). You can browse [Capterra’s Shortlist](https://www.capterra.com/inventory-management-software/shortlist/) of highly-rated inventory management tools to find the one that’s right for your business.

How to create a simple inventory management system?

Users say many of the [free inventory management software tools](https://www.capterra.com/inventory-management-software/?pricing_options=FREE_VERSION) in our directory are easy to implement, with intuitive user interfaces that are simple to learn. Free versions of inventory management tools may have fewer features, less data storage, and lower levels of customization than paid tools, but they still often provide a simple system for keeping track of your business’s inventory.

Will free inventory management software work for my business?

Free inventory management software can work for your business depending on the features, customizations, and data storage you need. If your business manages a high volume of SKUs, operates multiple locations, or requires complex customizations, free software may not be right for you. However, you can get started with a free version of a paid tool and upgrade to a paid subscription if it’s a good fit.

**Sources**

1.  **Capterra reviews data:** Reviews are collected from verified users for individual software products. For this report, we analyzed reviews from the past two years as of the research. Research was conducted in December 2024. [Read the complete methodology.](https://www.capterra.com/resources/proprietary-data-research/#software-buyers-guides-methodology)
    
2.  **Capterra advisor call notes:** Findings are based on data from telephonic conversations that Capterra’s advisor team had with businesses seeking project management software. For this report, we analyzed phone interactions from the past year of the research. Research was conducted in December 2024. [Read the complete methodology.](https://www.capterra.com/resources/proprietary-data-research/#software-buyers-guides-methodology)
    
3.  **Capterra software pricing data:** Only products with publicly available pricing information and qualified software products within the category, as of the research date, are included in the pricing analysis. [Read the complete methodology.](https://www.capterra.com/resources/proprietary-data-research/#software-buyers-guides-methodology)
    

[Molly Burke](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/mburke/)

Molly Burke is a senior analyst and writer for Capterra. She covers customer experience and marketing in the retail and restaurant industries, with a focus on how emerging technology is transforming the way everyday people shop. Her research helps business owners make software investment decisions that will help them navigate the ever-shifting retail landscape.  Molly’s research and analysis is informed by more than 120,000 authentic user reviews on Capterra and nearly 8,000 interactions...

[Caroline Rousseau](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/caroline-rousseau/)

Caroline Rousseau is a content editor at Capterra. A former content analyst, Caroline has, for the past five years, built, written, and edited research reports about technological trends, opportunities, and challenges with a small and midsize business audience in mind. Her content has been featured in French tier 1 media including Le Monde, L’Express, and Le Figaro, among other publications. Her previous experience as a graphic designer, translator, and LQA specialist in various industries...

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    SKU IQ](#d0a990d2-f355-49fb-9670-a75800a95f37)
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    Odoo](#49a68156-7e55-465d-bce6-a816004f00fd)
-   [
    
    Veeqo](#ba543a45-593d-4f28-9584-a6d200b74ee2)
-   [
    
    Sortly](#5265d66a-0219-49e7-b573-a82400584160)
-   [
    
    Square for Retail](#613412bf-166a-4876-865a-5ae6302876c1)
-   [
    
    EZO](#d2ac22ad-1a9a-4fb0-94bd-a6d200b3ea7f)

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